In the heart of California’s vast and varied landscape, forests stand as both guardians and vulnerable treasures. Towering redwoods along the northern coast, dense conifer forests in the Sierra Nevada, and sprawling oak woodlands in the foothills—each ecosystem plays a vital role in sustaining the state’s natural beauty, biodiversity, and resources. But these forests are under threat. Wildfires, fueled by a changing climate, have grown more frequent and intense, testing the limits of communities, ecosystems, and the very people tasked with protecting them.
Amid this challenge, a new vision is emerging: the California Forestry Sector Jobs Initiative. Spearheaded by CAL FIRE and supported by the California Forestry Association (Calforests), this initiative aims to do more than just fill vacancies. It seeks to cultivate a new generation of leaders—diverse, skilled, and committed to safeguarding the state’s forests for future generations.
This vision was the focus of a recent briefing hosted by Ethnic Media Services, where forestry leaders and advocates gathered to discuss the initiative’s goals and impact. Matt Dias, President of Calforests, opened the conversation with urgency and hope. “We are facing a wildfire crisis,” he explained, his voice steady but passionate. “To tackle it, we need not only strong partnerships but also a diverse and resilient workforce.” His words painted a picture of forests not just as resources to be managed, but as living communities needing care and protection.
The briefing revealed a core truth: the forestry sector, like the forests themselves, thrives on diversity. For decades, the industry drew workers from local, often isolated, communities in Northern California. It was a tight-knit world, steeped in tradition. But now, as the demands of forest management grow more complex, so too does the need to broaden the reach—to invite voices and talents that have historically been left out.
Women, minorities, and veterans are at the forefront of this invitation. Chief Matthew Reischman, Deputy Director at CAL FIRE, emphasized the importance of representation. “A forest is diverse by nature. Our workforce should reflect that,” he said. His words carried the weight of experience, a call to action to build not only a capable workforce but a community that mirrors California’s cultural richness.
The initiative offers more than jobs; it offers pathways. Training programs, mentorship, and education are central to its mission. Brita Goldstein, representing Green Diamond Resource Company, spoke of partnerships with local communities and the need to inspire young people to see forestry not just as a job, but as a lifelong commitment to stewardship. J. Lopez, from the California Board of Forestry, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the role of public engagement in breaking down barriers and inviting new talent into the fold.
Behind every statistic and strategy lies a deeper purpose: resilience. Not just for the forests, but for the people who depend on them. In rural towns where economic opportunities are scarce, these jobs are lifelines. In communities recovering from devastating wildfires, they are a chance to rebuild—not only homes but futures.
As the briefing came to a close, a sense of possibility lingered in the air. This wasn’t just about filling roles or meeting quotas. It was about reimagining what forestry could be—a space where innovation meets tradition, where environmental stewardship goes hand in hand with social equity.
The California Forestry Sector Jobs Initiative is planting seeds. Seeds of opportunity, diversity, and hope. And just like the forests it aims to protect, with care and nurturing, it promises to grow into something enduring—something that stands tall against the winds of change.
In the face of California’s escalating wildfire crisis and the pressing need for effective forest management, Chief Matthew Reischman, Deputy Director of Resource Management at CAL FIRE, brought a compelling perspective to the recent Ethnic Media Services briefing. As he shared insights into CAL FIRE’s decision to fund the California Forestry Sector Jobs Initiative, Chief Reischman painted a broader picture of the department’s ongoing efforts to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) across all facets of its operations.
For Chief Reischman, this initiative is more than a workforce development program—it’s a chance to transform the forestry sector by inviting new voices and perspectives into a traditionally insular industry. He reflected on how forestry jobs have historically been passed down within families in rural communities, often limiting access to a broader, more diverse pool of talent. “When I saw there was a DE&I component to this grant, it made perfect sense,” he explained. “It aligns with everything we’re doing to create a more inclusive and equitable workforce.”
Reischman underscored the critical need for a strong, diverse workforce to address the growing challenges of forest management and wildfire prevention. With thousands of acres requiring reforestation and a need for more sustainable use of timber resources, building this workforce is both an environmental and economic imperative. “We know we have a forest management issue,” he said. “Until we get there, we’re going to be struggling. We need all the support and help we can get.”
At the core of CAL FIRE’s efforts is the belief that diverse perspectives lead to better decision-making. In high-stakes situations, like wildfire response, quick decisions can save lives. But in moments where reflection is possible, taking a step back to view challenges through different lenses can lead to more informed, innovative solutions. “If we have an opportunity to pause and listen, to see a situation through a different lens, our decisions are better,” he emphasized.
Chief Reischman also highlighted CAL FIRE’s broader DE&I initiatives. One key project is EquipMap, a data-driven dashboard set to launch soon, which will visualize department demographics and identify areas where language access and representation can be improved. This tool, he noted, will help the department better serve California’s diverse communities. Another initiative is an Inclusive Language Guide, developed in collaboration with other state agencies, to enhance communication and foster greater understanding between staff and the public.
Beyond internal changes, CAL FIRE is revising public-facing documents and applications to be more inclusive, ensuring that everyone, regardless of background or language, can access opportunities within the department. “It’s about meeting people where they’re comfortable,” Reischman said, emphasizing the importance of clear, inclusive communication.
Chief Reischman’s enthusiasm for the California Forestry Sector Jobs Initiative was palpable. He sees it as a vital piece of a larger puzzle, one that not only addresses workforce shortages but also strengthens the state’s ability to manage its forests sustainably and equitably. “This initiative gives us the chance to engage with communities that may not have seen forestry as a viable career path,” he noted. “Education is huge. People need to know these opportunities exist.”
As he closed, Reischman left the audience with a powerful reminder: solutions often come from being open to different perspectives. “Sometimes, there’s more than one right answer,” he said. “We just have to be willing to listen.” In embracing this philosophy, CAL FIRE and the California Forestry Sector Jobs Initiative are not just filling jobs—they’re fostering a culture of inclusion, innovation, and resilience that will shape the future of California’s forests for generations to come.
At the recent Ethnic Media Services briefing, Brita Goldstein, Community Affairs and Communications Representative for Green Diamond Resource Company, shared her personal journey into forestry and the passion that continues to fuel her work. Goldstein, a licensed California Registered Professional Forester, spoke with heartfelt enthusiasm about the unique opportunities and sense of purpose that forestry offers.
“I didn’t know what forestry was until I got to college,” Goldstein admitted. Initially drawn to wildlife biology, she discovered forestry’s appeal through its broad scope. “Foresters need to understand everything in the forest ecosystem,” she explained, listing skills like hydrology, soil science, botany, and wildlife ecology as essential. The complexity and interconnectedness of the work captured her interest and ultimately reshaped her career aspirations.
Goldstein’s involvement in UC Berkeley’s Forestry Club and the Collegiate Logging Sports Team played a pivotal role in her journey. Beyond technical skills, these experiences introduced her to a community of passionate, integrity-driven professionals. “Forestry is tough work,” she noted. “Only those who really love it tend to stick with it.”
After graduation, Goldstein honed her skills in private forestry consulting, working with small family forest landowners to achieve various management goals. In 2018, she earned her Registered Professional Forester (RPF) license and transitioned to Green Diamond Resource Company, where she now serves as a bridge between the company and the public. Her work focuses on promoting forest education and fostering understanding of sustainable forestry practices.
Goldstein emphasized the growing demand for resource management jobs in the face of climate change and heightened wildfire risks. “There weren’t as many jobs when I graduated as there are now,” she observed, encouraging anyone interested in making a difference to consider the field. “Forestry offers a wide variety of meaningful work, from operational roles to technical and administrative positions,” she added. “You don’t have to be a forester to make your mark.”
One of the most profound aspects of forestry, Goldstein reflected, is its long-term impact. “We work on a timescale that spans decades, sometimes centuries. I won’t see all the trees I plant reach full height, but I do it anyway,” she said. This commitment to future generations is a hallmark of the profession, one that fosters a deep sense of purpose and community.
Goldstein also highlighted the importance of diversity in forestry, sharing her experience as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field. Her time at UC Berkeley’s forestry program, which was 80% women, was pivotal in shaping her confidence and career. “Women bring unique perspectives and creativity that are increasingly valued,” she said. However, she acknowledged that more work is needed to make the industry welcoming for people of all backgrounds.
The California Forestry Sector Jobs Initiative is a crucial step in that direction. Goldstein expressed her excitement about its potential to support women and other underrepresented groups. “We won’t meet California’s forest management demands without everyone who wants to help,” she concluded. With a warm welcome to future recruits, she added, “I’m glad you’re here. Let’s get to work.”
Goldstein’s story, rich with passion and purpose, underscored the profound opportunities within forestry—a field where stewardship, sustainability, and community intersect for a better future.
J. Lopez, a public member of the California Board of Forestry and Fire Protection, offered an inspiring narrative about the diverse career opportunities within the forestry sector. Drawing from his extensive 40-year journey, he highlighted how forestry requires a broad range of knowledge, including expertise in water, soil, ecosystem management, and product utilization.
Lopez shared his personal journey, starting from an initial interest in agriculture to discovering forestry through an influential presentation by the Society of American Foresters. He emphasized the importance of understanding not only the science but also the social aspects of forestry and the need to manage relationships with various stakeholders.
His career spanned from forest management and nursery work to working in diverse environments, including rainforests and high-altitude forests in both the U.S. and Mexico. Lopez also discussed his experience with the Los Angeles County Fire Department’s Forestry Division, where he was involved in environmental management and wildfire mitigation. He is now involved in a state pilot program focused on wildfire resilience, including retrofitting homes and utilizing tree products efficiently.
Lopez concluded by emphasizing the legacy and long-term impact of forestry work, stressing that what is done today will benefit future generations. His message underscored the interconnectedness of forests and water and the importance of sustainable management for the future well-being of the planet.
In conclusion, the California Forestry Sector Jobs Initiative represents more than just a workforce development program—it is a transformative movement aimed at strengthening California’s forests, communities, and future. By prioritizing diversity, inclusion, and education, this initiative not only addresses the urgent challenges of wildfire prevention and forest management but also fosters a more resilient, equitable, and sustainable environment for generations to come. With the combined efforts of CAL FIRE, Calforests, and dedicated partners, the initiative is sowing the seeds of change—nurturing a new, diverse generation of leaders who will ensure California’s forests remain vibrant and protected in the face of a changing climate. The future of California’s forests is in capable, diverse hands, and this initiative is the first step toward building that future with care, innovation, and a deep commitment to stewardship.
